By Johnathan Paoli
Heavy rains resulted in severe flooding across the Nelson Mandela Bay region, specifically parts of Gqeberha and Kariega, prompting urgent calls for humanitarian assistance as communities sought refuge from rising waters.
Also, around 400 matric learners were unable to write the Computer Studies exams because of power cuts due to the weather.
Humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers Foundation reported an influx of requests for help as local authorities struggle to cope.
Operations manager Ali Sablay stated that many residents were being evacuated to school halls and churches due to the flooding.
“KwaNobuhle is currently without drinking water, as the water plant has been inundated,” he said.
The organisation was working closely with local disaster management teams to identify residents in need of evacuation and support.
To address immediate needs, Sablay confirmed that an urgent request for blankets, mattresses, personal hygiene items and hot meals has been made.
He said his organisation planned to send water tankers from Adelaide to areas affected by the water shortage and would monitor local clinics and schools for their water needs.
Nelson Mandela Bay municipality spokesperson Sithembiso Soyaya provided updates on evacuation efforts, revealing that residents from the Dr Braun area were being relocated to De Mist NG Church, while those from Lapland were heading to the Rosedale Indoor Sport Centre.
Evacuations are also taking place in Missionvale and Uitenhage.
Soyaya highlighted significant infrastructure challenges, reporting that the Kruisrivier bridge is at risk of collapse, and numerous roads in Gqeberha were closed due to flooding.
Critical routes affected include Perseverance Crossing, Bethelsdorp Road and sections of the N2 and M4 highways.
Power outages were compounding the crisis, with circuit breakers tripping across multiple areas, including Motherwell and Kariega.
The municipality noted in an alert that the severe weather conditions could hinder efforts to restore power.
Acting executive director for safety and security, Shadrack Sibiya, emphasised the ongoing efforts to coordinate relief and rescue operations, stating that additional resources are being mobilised to reach affected areas.
In light of the flooding crisis, the Democratic Alliance has expressed deep concern for the affected communities.
DA provincial caucus leader, Vicky Knoetze, announced the adjournment of a legislative sitting to prioritise disaster response efforts.
“Our thoughts remain with the families affected by these floods, and we urge the provincial government to expedite relief efforts,” Knoetze said.
The situation remains precarious as communities continue to face challenges related to power outages and access to clean drinking water.
Local authorities and humanitarian organisations are working tirelessly to ensure that those affected receive the necessary support and resources.
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